Waynesville center’s enrollment through the roof

Enrollment at the Waynesville Center of Ozarks Technical Community Center continues to grow at a record pace.

There are 203 students attending classes at the center, an 81.3 percent increase over last fall’s numbers

“The center has become part an integral part of the community. Students have made the Waynesville Education Center a home away from home,” said Rosalind Pride, the center’s coordinator.

“We are excited to be a part of something positive in our community; the feedback has been overwhelmingly supportive.”

Pride said the center delivers what students need quality higher education that is accessible and affordable.

The center opened last fall in the Town Field Plaza, 320 Ichord, with a little more than 100 students attending. Each semester since has seen increase in enrollment. This fall’s jump has been the most ever.

“There is an increasing demand for education and workforce training due to the dire economic situation in some of the communities. More people are seeing the need to further their education due to the knowledge and skills required to use the latest technologies in their jobs.” said Dr. Sue Moore, OTC’s dean of Extended Campuses and College Outreach.

“If residents can attend college locally, limit spending on transportation, and still have the time to work and care for their families, they are more likely to seek and accomplish their educational goals.”

Overall, enrollment at OTC’s two campuses and three education centers is up nearly 16 percent.

“As we have continued to grow as an institution, our student population has also grown, and we are working hard to meet the needs of each student,” said Dr. Hal Higdon, president of the College.

“However, with state funding continuing to diminish, there is little we can do to alleviate our physical capacity issues, particularly at the Springfield campus.”

Steve Koehler is coordinator of publications at Ozarks Technical Community College.